Get Checked: National Depression Screening Day

Depression Screening

There are many who are suffering with Depression in silence and who are feeling that there is no where to turn. The guilt and the shame of not being able to effectively cope with day-to-day stressors leaves many feeling isolated, helpless and hopeless. We know that for heart disease or diabetes, health screenings provide a quick and easy way to spot the first signs of serious illness and can reach people who might not otherwise seek professional medical advice. With two out of every three people who are experiencing depression not seeking help, why isn’t depression screening seen as just as important?

There are many reasons as to why someone wouldn’t reach out for medical advice or help. Shame and guilt being a part of the reason, but also not knowing how to navigate the mental health system being another. Some people are also just not sure that what they are experiencing is an illness.

These tough times have made the need for emotional support vital for maintaining the health of our communities. Beverly Beuermann-King Click to tweet

Why Screen For Depression?

Depression is a serious illness.
Depression can lead to suicide.
Being Depressed for a long period of time is not a “normal part of life.”
Depression can affect men and women of all ages, races and socioeconomic groups.
Depression can impact physical health, relationships, and productivity if left untreated
Screenings are not a definitive diagnosis for Depression, but they can point out the presence of symptoms often associated with Depression

Who Should Get Screened For Depression?

If in doubt, check it out. |
People experiencing Depression report these key symptoms:

Persistent sadness or “empty” mood
Sleeping interruptions, or sleeping too much
Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Restlessness or decreased activity
Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
Fatigue or loss of energy
Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression Screening Online

There are several anonymous on-line screening tools for Depression. If you think that you or a family member may be experiencing Depression follow the link and answer the questions. If it turns out that you or they are experiencing Depression, know that help is available and it may come in many forms. Counselling, psychotherapy, medication and stress management techniques have all been found to be effective in managing the symptoms of Depression.

Depression Screening On-Line – http://www.mentalhealthscreening.org/screening/Welcome.aspx

Beverly’s 5 Tips For National Depression Screening Day:

Like screenings for other illnesses, Depression screenings should be a routine part of healthcare.
Don’t let fear, shame or guilt prevent you from getting the help that you deserve.
Talk to your doctor if you are concerned – use the on-line screening tool to help you explain how and what you are experiencing.
Keep an open mind. Treatment for depression make take a long time and the best treatment option may take time to find and to have full impact. Just because the treatment doesn’t work right away, doesn’t mean that it won’t work at all.
Get educated. Know about the signs and symptoms. Let your workplace know that you are interested in learning more. Host a lunch ‘n’ learn. The more you know about the illness and supporting those who have Depression, the fewer people we will have who feel isolated and helpless.